Laura Cannell talks about her latest video and creative projects using the ancient Sutton Hoo lyre
Laura Cannell recently discussed the making of her new album, “LYRELYRELYRE,” with a focus on using the lyre, an instrument discovered in the 7th Century Sutton Hoo ship burial site. The album features nine haunting improvised tracks that combine the use of a bass recorder and crumhorn alongside the lyre. Paddy Clarke, in his review, mentioned the chasmic reverberations on “LYRELYRELYRE” and how they transport the listener back to ancient times, creating a surreal experience. Cannell’s music beautifully blends the ancient and modern landscapes of East Anglia.
Cannell delves into the challenges she faced when working with the lyre. She mentions transitioning from learning a 12-string lap harp to playing a six-string lyre, which required changing positions and techniques. Determining the approach to writing melodies, performing live, exploring the instrument’s capabilities, and understanding its tuning posed additional challenges. Despite being historically used as an accompanying instrument, Cannell sought to liberate the lyre and infuse her improvisational style while capturing the essence of the ancient instrument with a touch of modernity.
The unique qualities of the lyre lie in its open tuning that allows for the creation of diverse musical worlds. With its captivating resonance and minimal effort, the lyre contrasts with the demands of instruments like violins and recorders. Cannell describes it as a self-sufficient instrument that emits enchanting sounds akin to a content bird singing for its joy, requiring minimal external input for its musical expression.
The inspiration behind “LYRELYRELYRE” stems from Cannell’s desire to connect with the musical traditions of Anglo-Saxon Suffolk where she resides. Delving into the history of lyres found in neighboring regions like Norfolk and Suffolk, believed to accompany warrior musicians in burials, shaped the album’s narrative. Funding from The Marchus Trust allowed Cannell to research ancient instruments, tunings, and imagery, providing a deeper understanding of the region’s musical heritage and landscape.
For the video “A Ship Sunk In Earth,” a tribute to the Sutton Hoo Lyre, Cannell sought to honor the unnamed queen who buried the lyre in King Raedwald’s ship burial. Serving as a symbolic representation of a powerful woman transitioning from Paganism to Christianity in the seventh century, the video showcases the Queen’s strength, vision, and role in the ceremonial burial. Collaborating with artists and performers, Cannell recreated a ritualistic setting near a fallen tree, resembling an upturned ship, using dance steps and handmade props to evoke a sense of ancient mystique.
Overall, “LYRELYRELYRE” and its accompanying video encapsulate Laura Cannell’s creative journey in embracing ancient musical traditions, experimental improvisation, and storytelling through the evocative sounds of the Sutton Hoo lyre. The album stands as a testament to her innovative approach to reviving historical instruments and breathing new life into centuries-old melodies.